It’s is well known that interacting with animals can improve your health and wellbeing. We’ve all seen the youtube and facebook videos of cute dogs and cats – for a great feel-good moment check out this youtube video called Power of Puppies to see how puppies changed a pre-school, retirement home and even a gym!
So as today is International Pet day – its a day to show a little extra love and attention to the pets in your life. Or if you don’t have a pet you might want to think about giving a little to a local shelter or the SPCA instead!
Here are some top reasons to celebrate Pet Day 2016, because your pets can be good for improving …
the immune systems of your kids. There has been research done out of the University of Wisconsin-Madison which shows that babies who live in a home with a dog are less likely to have an allergy to pets, and are also less likely to develop eczema.
your social life – you’re more likely to have a conversation with people when you’re out and about when you have a dog with you, versus when you’re on your own. And joining puppy training classes or going to a dog park is also another great way to meet new people.
your mind and soul. Studies from the University of California show that patients with Alzheimer's who have a pet at home, have fewer outbursts than other patients. And, pets are great for companionship and can also help elderly people get more exercise. Not only do many pets offer unconditional love, but they can also give you a sense of purpose, which is great if you’re feeling down in the dumps.
your heart and health. Not only does exercising your pet help keep you healthy, but studies show that patients who have pets survive longer than those without. And if you’re in a high-pressure job – how about the research into stockbrokers with high blood pressures level that showed less being lower in stressful situations than their non-pet owning peers
So when you see your pet (or someone else’s pet) today, give them a little extra bit of love to say thanks.
